PEC Deputy Fire Chief Robert Rutter receives the $7,500 Enbridge Safe Community Program grant from Suzanne Shea, Community Engagement Advisor.

A ‘Safe Community Program’ grant from Enbridge will help Prince Edward County’s Fire Department purchase several lengths of forestry hose and nozzels to help combat grass and wildland fires.

Embridge Engagement Advisor Suzanne Shea presented $7,500 to Deputy Fire Chief Robert Rutter on Monday. Launched in Canada in 2009, the program was established to support emergency first responders in small communities across Canada and the United States, particularly those in proximity to Enbridge facilities and pipelines.

Grants are typically awarded for the purchase of equipment or to help pay for training.

“This funding will help us upgrade our equipment,” said Rutter. “The past year’s especially dry conditions took a toll on our resources, and this investment will ensure that we’re prepared for similar conditions next year.”

The department will also use some of the funds to purchase new I-Com Handsets that can be programmed to allow for better inter-operability with other emergency services.

“Enbridge’s generous donation is going to help us serve the residents of Prince Edward County even more effectively,” said Fire Chief Scott Manlow. “The Safe Community Program truly demonstrates Enbridge’s commitment to the safety and security of Canadians. We appreciate that commitment, and are incredibly grateful for the support that we are receiving because of it.”

“We’re pleased to support those efforts,” said Ken Hall, senior public affairs advisor with Enbridge. “Through this donation we are able to help ensure Prince Edward County’s firefighters have access to the best equipment when they’re on the job and responding to an emergency.”